The Bank of Russia unexpectedly maintained its key interest rate at a record-high 21% , defying analysts’ expectations of another significant hike as inflation remains stubbornly elevated. The decision marks a shift toward a more measured approach in balancing economic growth and price stability. Key Details Inflation Concerns: Annual inflation climbed to 8.9% in November, well above the central bank’s 4% target , with inflation expectations reaching 13.9% in December. Policy Rationale: The central bank cited the significant tightening of monetary conditions after October’s 200-basis point hike as sufficient to resume disinflationary processes. Governor Elvira Nabiullina emphasized avoiding both economic overheating and severe slowdowns. Economic Overheating: Elevated government spending on the war in Ukraine and social programs, coupled with labor shortages and rising wages, have fueled strong domestic demand, exacerbating price pressures...
KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 17): The FBM KLCI gained 3.75 points or 0.22% today with Asian shares after US equities' overnight rise.
Reuters reported that US stocks surged more than 2 percent on Tuesday after upbeat earnings reports from major companies including UnitedHealth and Goldman Sachs and solid economic data, as equities rebounded from a recent sharp sell-off.
It was reported that Asian equities got some welcome relief on Wednesday after upbeat US earnings reports drove a rebound on Wall Street and helped restore a little faith in emerging market stocks and currencies.
In China, the Shanghai Stock Exchange Composite climbed 0.6% while Hong Kong markets were closed today for the Chung Yeung Festival holiday.
In Malaysia, Areca Capital Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Danny Wong told theedgemarkets.com: “The US markets saw an overnight gain, which has lifted sentiment on the local market, especially after the recent sell down. Investors may also be doing some bargain hunting after the decline.”
Across Bursa Malaysia, 2.03 billion shares were traded for RM2.08 billion.
Top gainers include Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Bhd, British American Tobacco (M) Bhd and Malaysian Pacific Industries Bhd.
Leading decliners included Hong Leong Bank Bhd, Hong Leong Financial Group Bhd and Westports Holdings Bhd.
Source: The Edge
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